“It was amazing to see what is being done currently in downtown Monroe and to hear from developers about the issues and successes they have had in the process,” said Zorn, R-Ida. “Local leaders, developers and innovative business owners are working together to revitalize downtown Monroe. As a result, we are seeing new investment and opportunities, which is great news for the community and the entire region.”

The tour started with Zorn meeting with Ryan Houser and Hannah Loop from Patriot Group, which is looking to create office space that will offer flexible renting options through various forms of membership. The group then toured recently refurbished apartments with Greg Schafer above a future open retail development on the main floor and saw condominiums owned and operated by Adam Davis above the Jones for Men clothing store on Front Street.

“I want to thank Mayor Clark and Annette Knowles for hosting this tour,” Zorn said. “It is important to remember that each development means more buildings in our downtown communities put back to productive use and more jobs for local residents.”

The tour met with Book Nook owner Janet Berns, Mike Stolisov and Nick Wilkens of MNX Solutions, and the Art Insight Emporium’s Christy LaRoy before concluding at one of the newest retail locations, RunHip with co-owner Deric Tedora. The fitness store is in the former United Furniture building, which is one of several properties developed by Ken Wickenheiser.